As Crete is the most populous of the Greek islands and one of the country’s main tourist destinations, it is important to carefully select where to stay during your trip. The island has a unique historical and archaeological heritage combined with heavenly beaches with crystal clear sea.
Crete is divided into four provinces, Chania, Rethymno,Heraklion, Lassithi, and the advice is to rent a car to be able to see the most beautiful beaches and main attractions with more ease. But, whether you rent a car or rely on public transport, choosing the right accommodation also means saving time in transfers between different locations.
Some areas of the island (generally in the north-western part) have accommodation facilities and establishments well organized to receive tourists, while others (generally in the eastern part) are areas still little touristy where there are authentic villages, small taverns and free beaches.
The choice of accommodation also depends on the type of vacation you want to do: do you like free beaches or equipped ones? Do you love beach parties or do you want to relax and tranquility? Here is an article that will help you to choose the most suitable accommodation for you according to your needs.
Chania is certainly one of the most famous cities where to sleep in Crete, thanks to its characteristic historical center and its location not far from the airport and from famous beaches. The city bears the signs of all the major civilizations that have made the history of Greece, such as Venetians and Turks and among the narrow streets of its center you can find an ancient and traditional atmosphere.
Chania also has the advantage of not being too far from renowned beaches, such as: Falasarna, Balos, Elafonissi, Stavros and Marathi. Thanks to these characteristics it is often a very crowded place in summer, so the advice is to book an accommodation well in advance.
Kissamos is located about 40 km from Chania, and is a town where you can find accommodation cheaper than the capital. Here you will find excellent restaurants, a lively nightlife and the best beaches of the island nearby: a winning combination to say the least.
Kissamos is the ideal location as a base to reach all the most famous beaches of the province of Chania, such as: Balos, Elafonissi, Falassarna.
If you have come to Crete not only for the sea but because you are lovers of history and archeology, Heraklion it is definitely one of the best places to stay.
Here you will find the beautiful Archaeological Museum which houses one of the largest collections of Minoan art and, near the city, some of the most famous archaeological sites: Phaestos, Malia and Knossos, the ancient city famous for the legend of the Minotaur.
The city also hosts the island’s main international airport and also a port that has connections both to mainland Greece and to other islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. Being the capital of the island and an important tourist center, Heraklion, is a city with a wide choice of accommodations and facilities, but also with several bars and clubs for those who enjoy the nightlife.
Hersonissos is a small town not far from the airport of Heraklion that proves to be the ideal destination for those seeking a vacation full of fun and parties until late at night. In summer the city fills up with young people who after sunset animate the center full of clubs, pubs and discos.
In the vicinity of the center of Hersonissos, however, in addition to beautiful beaches there are also attractions suitable for families and children such as: the Star Beach, a water park facing the sea, Labyrinth Park a Greek mythological theme park with maze, mini golf, archery and other attractions and the Aquaworld Aquarium.
Considered the most festive city of Crete, Malia it is a locality located about 35 km east of Heraklion suitable for lovers of nightlife and entertainment. From a small agricultural village, the town has developed to become one of the most famous cities of Crete for beach parties animated by famous DJs. Here you can find accommodation at different price ranges even in apartments and small studios.
Considered one of the most “in” cities of Crete, Elounda is a resort that combines luxury accommodation, relaxation and beautiful natural scenery. This town is often chosen as a destination by VIP couples or wealthy families looking for a stay of comfort and tranquility without budget problems.
Here you can find lavish apartments or houses with private pools and beaches, or luxurious hotels with all the amenities. Elounda is located about an hour’s drive from the capital Heraklion, and is considered together with Sitia one of the best cities to explore the eastern part of the island.
Agios Nikolaos, located in the easternmost province of Crete, is a picturesque village characterized by small taverns, traditional restaurants and local craft stores.
In addition to having beautiful beaches nearby, the town is famous for Lake Voulismeni, which is connected directly to the sea by a canal. A perfect destination for couples or families looking for tranquility, who can find different types of accommodations here according to different needs. From the port of Agios Nikolaos, moreover, it is possible to leave by boat to visit the historical island of Spinalonga.
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